1. Specifications Comparison
Here's a detailed comparison of the Samsung Galaxy A52 and Realme C61, focusing on practical implications for users:
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A52 | Realme C61 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2021-03-26 | 2024-07-25 | Realme C61 is a much newer device, potentially with longer software support. |
| Dimensions | 159.9 × 75.1 × 8.4 mm | 167.3 × 76.7 × 7.8 mm | Realme C61 is taller and wider but slightly thinner; A52 is more compact in hand |
| Weight | 189g | 188g | Virtually the same weight; both are moderately lightweight phones. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.5" | 6.74" | Realme C61 offers slightly more screen real estate for media consumption. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 720x1600 | Samsung A52 will have a much sharper and more detailed display (text, images, video) |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 407 | 260 | Samsung A52 will have noticeably clearer images and text, better for detailed viewing |
| Technology | AMOLED | IPS LCD | Samsung A52 has superior blacks, contrast, more vibrant colors, and is more power-efficient with dark themes. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 90Hz | Both phones offer smooth scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Peak brightness is identical; further testing is needed to assess screen visibility under various conditions. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Qualcomm Snapdragon 720G (8 nm) | Unisoc Tiger T612 (12 nm) | Snapdragon 720G offers better performance for general use, gaming, and multitasking. |
| AnTuTu Score | 341,212 | 252,597 | Samsung A52 is noticeably faster in benchmark scores, and will generally feel smoother. |
| GPU | Adreno 618 | Mali-G57 MP1 | Snapdragon's Adreno GPU is more capable for graphics intensive tasks (like gaming). |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 64MP, f/1.8, 1/1.7", Sony IMX682 | 32MP, f/1.8 | Samsung A52 captures more detailed images due to higher resolution, sensor size and a well-known sensor |
| Selfie Camera | 32MP, f/2.2, 1/2.8", Sony IMX616 | 5MP, f/2.0 | Samsung A52 takes far more detailed selfies; while Realme C61 may perform better in low-light situations with a wider aperture |
| Wide-Angle Camera | 12MP, f/2.2 | Not Available | Samsung A52 offers a wider perspective for group shots and landscapes. |
| Depth Camera | 5MP, f/2.4 | 2MP, f/2.4 | Samsung A52 offers better bokeh (background blur) effects. |
| Macro Camera | 5MP, f/2.4 | Not Available | Samsung A52 allows for detailed close-up shots. |
| Video Recording | 4K@30fps, 1080p@60fps with EIS | 1080p@30fps | Samsung A52 records higher-resolution videos with smoother 60fps and stabilization. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 5000mAh | Realme C61 has larger battery for longer usage between charges. |
| Charging | 25W Fast Charging | 45W Fast Charging | Realme C61 charges faster reducing downtime. |
| Battery Features | Non-removable, QC2.0 and AFC | Non-removable | Samsung A52 includes Qualcomm's Quick Charge 2.0 and Adaptive Fast Charging |
| Software | |||
| Operating System | Android 11, upgradeable to 14 | Android 14 | Realme C61 starts with a newer OS, offering the latest features and security updates. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac | Both offer the same WiFi standards; Both support Dual Band, Wi-Fi Hotspot, Wi-Fi Direct, and Wi-Fi Display |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 LE, A2DP, EDR, HID, LE, ANT+ | 5.0 LE, A2DP, EDR, HID, LE | Samsung A52 offers ANT+ connectivity, useful for fitness tracking and accessories. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Galileo | Samsung A52 has better location accuracy with more satellite systems. |
| SIM | Dual SIM (Nano) | Dual SIM (Nano) | Both are Dual SIM, Dual Standby capable. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128GB/256GB | 64GB/128GB/256GB | Both have up to 256GB of storage with various base options. |
| RAM | 4GB/6GB/8GB | 4GB/6GB/8GB | Both offers similar RAM options, impacting multitasking performance. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither offers the option to expand storage via SD cards. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, Dolby Digital Plus, Stereo Speakers | Stereo Speakers | Samsung A52 offers a more immersive audio experience. |
| Security | |||
| Features | basic fingerprint sensor | side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Realme C61's side-mounted fingerprint sensor is generally more convenient |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass 5 | Unknown | Samsung A52 offers much better screen protection, improving longevity. |
| Sensors | |||
| Included | Fingerprint, Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Proximity | Accelerometer, Proximity | Samsung A52 is equipped with more advanced sensors for enhanced functionality and gaming. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy A52 Advantages:
- Superior Display: AMOLED screen with higher resolution and pixel density results in much sharper visuals, better colors, and deeper blacks, especially beneficial for media consumption.
- Better Performance: The Snapdragon 720G chipset offers notably better processing power, leading to smoother app operation and better gaming performance.
- Enhanced Camera System: Higher resolution main, selfie, wide-angle, macro, and depth cameras provide more versatility and higher quality images, along with 4K video.
- Better Audio: Dolby Atmos with stereo speakers enhances the audio experience for media.
- More Advanced Connectivity: Offers Beidou satellite support for better GPS and ANT+ for fitness devices.
- Better build quality: Corning Gorilla Glass 5 is a very good screen protector.
Realme C61 Advantages:
- Newer Device: Launched over three years later, likely with longer software support and more modern features.
- Larger Battery: The 5000mAh battery provides longer usage time between charges.
- Faster Charging: 45W fast charging significantly reduces charging time.
- Latest OS: Android 14 out of the box provides latest software features and security updates.
- Side-mounted Fingerprint: Generally considered more convenient than basic fingerprint sensors.
Significant Trade-offs:
- Samsung A52: Older model, therefore possibly shorter software update lifespan. Slower charging compared to Realme C61.
- Realme C61: Lower resolution and less vibrant display, weaker overall performance compared to Samsung A52, lower camera quality and less features.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy A52 Ideal User:
- Users who prioritize a high-quality display experience for media consumption.
- Users who play mobile games and need a phone with better graphics and processing performance.
- Users who value camera quality and advanced photography features.
- Users who want a better overall smartphone experience, are less budget-constrained, and are willing to consider an older model.
Use Cases:
- Watching high-resolution movies and videos.
- Playing graphics-intensive mobile games.
- Taking high-quality photos and videos for personal or social media use.
- Daily multitasking with multiple apps running simultaneously.
Realme C61 Ideal User:
- Users who need long battery life and fast charging.
- Users who want a newer device with the latest software at a budget.
- Users with less demanding mobile gaming needs and don't need the best graphic performance.
- Users who prioritize a budget-friendly device.
Use Cases:
- Daily browsing and social media use.
- Long hours of mobile usage without charging.
- Casual gaming.
- General smartphone use for calls and communication.
4. Decision Framework
Here are three key questions potential buyers should consider:
What do you prioritize most: display quality and camera, or battery life and cost?
- If display and camera are crucial, the Samsung A52 is better. If battery and price are essential, the Realme C61 wins.
How important is gaming and overall performance?
- If you need reliable, high-level performance, choose Samsung A52. If you’re casual gamer or mainly use basic apps, the Realme C61 will be fine.
Do you prefer a newer device with the latest software?
- If the latest OS is a must-have, the Realme C61 is the clear option. If not, you can still enjoy a great user experience with the Samsung Galaxy A52.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1 (Media Enthusiast): If you primarily watch videos, browse social media, and play games, the Samsung Galaxy A52's superior display and performance will be worth the investment.
- Scenario 2 (Budget-Conscious User): If budget and battery life are most important, the Realme C61 is the better choice.
- Scenario 3 (Balanced User): If you need a device that performs well and has a nice balance between camera, display, performance and battery, the Samsung Galaxy A52 still has a lot to offer.
My Choice
If I were choosing between these two phones, I would pick the Samsung Galaxy A52. While it is an older device, its superior display (AMOLED, higher resolution), significantly better performance, better camera system, and build quality with Gorilla Glass 5 protection make it a more enjoyable and versatile phone for me. I prioritize the visual experience, smooth performance and camera quality for my daily use and the A52 excels in these areas. The Realme C61 is a solid budget phone with a good battery and faster charging, but the overall user experience (screen, camera quality, performance) wouldn't be as enjoyable. The A52 still has a lot of life left and is my preferred choice.
